Ritodrine (HCl)
Ritodrine (HCl) is a beta-2 agonist, relaxes the uterine smooth muscles. Ritodrine (HCl) is used to arrest uncomplicated premature labour between 24-33 weeks of gastationand it may permit a delay in delivery of at least 48 hours.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Hydroxyphenylamide.
It belongs to Beta-2 adrenergic agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Posterior Pituitary Hormones .
Molecular Weight: 323.8 · pKa: 8.6 · Solubility in Water: > 1 in 10 · Solubility in Alcohol: >1 in 10 · Non-proprietary name: Ritodrine (HCl).

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ritodrine (HCl) has an oral bioavailability is 96.5% (±1.5%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 65% (±5%).
Distribution: Ritodrine (HCl) has a volume of distribution is 0.6 - 0.9 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 30 %.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 1.7 - 2.6 hr, renal excretion is 90 %.
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Indications
Ritodrine (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Asphyxia, Oedema, Oliguria due to renal failure, Premature labour, Uncomplicated premature labor.
Contraindications
Ritodrine (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Hyperthyroidism, Heart disease, Ecg abnormalities, Eclampsia, Chorioamnionitis, Cord compression, Intrauterine fetal death, Antepartum haemorrhage.
Dosage
Ritodrine (HCl)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 15 mg | 15 mg | Every 6h | IM | For 2 Days |
| 0.71 ug/ kg.min | 0.71 ug/ kg.min | — | IV Inf | Initially as required |
| 3.57 ug/ kg.min | 3.57 ug/ kg.min | — | IV Inf | Maintenance for 12-48 Hours |
| 10 mg | 10 mg | Every 4h | PO | As Required |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not indicated in children | |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not used in this age group | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Ritodrine (HCl) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hyperlipidemic effects , Hyperglycemia , Metabolic disturbances , Hypokalemia , Hyperinsulinemia.
Ritodrine (HCl) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Pulmonary edema , Cardiac arrhythmia, Cardiopulmonary complications, Angina-like complaints, Maternal death. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Ritodrine (HCl) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Anxiety, Erythema, Headache, Nausea and vomiting, Palpitation, Restlessness, Tremors.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Ritodrine (HCl) may interfere in the diagnosis of Elevations of SGPT and SGOT , Elevation in ALT or AST.
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.22.1.2 — Anti-oxytocics